“Marzahner Brücke.” Ever heard that name whispered in the wind? It’s more than just concrete and steel. The Marzahner Brücke embodies Berlin’s ever-evolving story.
Welcome to the Marzahner Brücke. It’s a multi-part bridge structure along Landsberger Allee in Marzahn-Hellersdorf. This complex construction carries traffic over two separate railway tracks. These tracks serve both long-distance and S-Bahn trains. The bridge also spans a commercial street. Plus it crosses Märkische Allee, a part of the B158 federal road.
Let’s journey back to the mid-1970s. The area was undergoing a massive transformation. New housing estates were springing up in Marzahn and Hellersdorf. The Marzahner Brücke’s construction aligned with this growth. Before the bridge, a level crossing existed. It was part of the Berlin outer ring and the Wriezener Bahn. Back then, the street was called Berliner Chaussee.
From an engineering perspective, the Marzahner Brücke is quite interesting. It’s a multi-field prestressed concrete structure. It uses prefabricated parts and edge beam reinforced girder construction. The bridges vary in width from 37 to 39.70 meters. The western section stretches 144 meters. The middle pair measures 113 meters. The eastern pair spans approximately 80 meters. Combined with the embankments, the road section extends over 800 meters.
The Marzahner Brücke includes footpaths and cycle paths. There are at least two lanes per direction. These lanes connect to Märkische Allee in a highway-like manner. North of the western road bridge runs a tram bridge. The BVG operates this tram line. The M6 and 16 trams use it.
In the mid-1990s, the Berlin Senate undertook extensive renovations. Under the guidance of civil engineer Gerald Hanisch, the Cologne-based company vdw Gebrüder von den Wettern carried out the work. They sealed and renewed the road surfaces. Concrete damage was repaired. Structural additions were made. A weather-resistant surface protection completed the work. The renovations cost 5.8 million DM.
In 2007 and 2008, a connecting road was added. It provides access for cyclists to the Georg-Knorr-Gewerbepark. This addition enhanced accessibility around the Marzahner Brücke.
However, the Marzahner Brücke has also seen its share of drama. In February 2009, a truck collided with a tram on the bridge. The tram was pushed off the tracks. Fortunately, no one was injured.
Today, the Marzahner Brücke stands as a testament to Berlin’s resilience. Nearby, you’ll find Theater 89. It is in the former canteen of the Berliner Bremsenwerk. The ORWO-Haus and the Pyramide high-rise are also close. So is the S-Bahn station Marzahn and the Eastgate shopping center.
In essence, the Marzahner Brücke is more than just a crossing. It’s a vital artery in Berlin’s transportation network. It reflects the city’s history and ongoing development. As we conclude our visit, remember the stories embedded in this structure. It connects not only places but also eras. The Marzahner Brücke remains a crucial part of Berlin’s urban landscape.